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terrace sun deck of a cabana

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Quite possibly the most exquisite secret in Mexico, Maroma Beach is a resort hideaway intent on preserving the ecology of its 500-plus acres of beach and rain forest, all the while taking individual service and luxury to unprecedented heights. Maroma is nestled into the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and lies a mere 30 miles south of Cancun, but thankfully, remains worlds away from this spring break hot spot's pace and lifestyle. Maroma's guests are immersed in a quiet world of warm azure waters, pure white sands and rich tropical foliage. This miniature Eden of stucco huts and thatched roofs, beachside serenades and sunset cruises, will rejuvenate both body and spirit.

"Handmade Hospitality" is the philosophy the resort operates under, referring both to the passion to meet guests' every need and the machine-free method of construction used in creating the resort. Eco-travelers will delight in learning that every building on the property was made by hand, without any machinery or electricity, and only 1/10 of Maroma's property will be developed in order to preserve the ecological balance.

Entering the world of Maroma is like wandering into the warmth and pleasure of your best friend's "casa." Whether indulging in a private 4-hand massage by the ocean, or dinner by torchlight on the beach, this extraordinary retreat will make dreams you never knew existed come true.

Getting There Nearest major international airport: Cancun International Airport is about 20 miles north of Maroma - about a 30 minute drive from Maroma.

Airport transportation Transfers to and from the airport are included in room rates.

Transportation while you are there Maroma Hotel will arrange rental cars and chauffeured vehicles for guests.

Timing The climate in this region of Mexico is tropical. Average high temperatures are in the mid-80s Fahrenheit with lows in the upper-60s F. Summer months are a bit warmer, with highs around 90 F and lows in the mid 70s F. March and April are the driest months, while September and October are the rainiest because of hurricane season.

Lodging Maroma Hotel's 36 luxury rooms and suites feature king-size beds, sunken tubs, ceiling fans and unique furniture made in Maroma's own workshops. Each also has a furnished outdoor terrace complete with hammock, hand-painted Mexican tiles and hand-woven fabrics. Private villas offer three air-conditioned bedrooms, four bathrooms, a living room, dining room, private pool and open-air terrace surrounded by tropical gardens. All rooms, suites and villas are no more than 50 meters from the beach. Rates vary and include full breakfast daily, airport transfers and one snorkeling trip per guest.

Cuisine
Chef Stephanie Rowe ensures guests' palates are satiated with every dish he prepares. His menu incorporates a selection of fresh seafood from the reef, and generally includes lobster in the main courses and appetizers. Fresh produce often comes from Maroma's own property - coconuts are plucked from the jungle palms, and breakfast jams are made from the fruits of the sea grapevines. Be sure to save room for the Flaming Mexican Coffee, prepared right at your table. Even the mealtime philosophy at Maroma keeps with the "Handmade Hospitality" motto - whether eating on your own terrace, under a thatched roof or by torchlight on the beach, or among the crystal and linens of the dining room - your every wish will be met.

Travel Tips Maroma rests along the stretch of Mexico coined the "Mayan Riviera," and an on-site travel office ensures that visitors can take advantage of the many wonderful opportunities available to them at both the resort and in the surrounding area. Charter a vehicle and visit nearby Mayan ruins, pay homage to Chichen Itza and Tikal, explore the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve or sharpen your ornithological skills at the Contoy Island bird sanctuary. The world's second-largest barrier reef lies right offshore and is perfect for a snorkeling excursion. Water lovers will also enjoy the opportunities for cave diving, jungle river trips and even kayaking.

Should the countless options to explore or the gorgeous trek through the rain forest prove tiresome, guests can lazily wander the resort's library and game room, boutique and art gallery and multimedia theater.

Upon arrival, take advantage of the property tour, which introduces visitors to the lovely meditation room (where a private dinner can be scheduled) and the lookout point. Maroma truly does accommodate your every need, except, perhaps, that of children - no one under the age of 16 is permitted.

While you are there Do not miss out on Maroma's spa services. Choose from facials, massages, reflexology, mud, Ajurveda, yoga, meditation, rebirthing or crystal therapy. Take your relaxation one incredible step further with Temazcal, the ancient purifying and healing ritual of the Mayan steam bath.

And swim with dolphins. Guests are first shown an informative video, and then brought to swim with these beautiful animals.

To fake that you've been there Ask friends if they've heard the very "hush-hush" and wildly romantic founding story of Maroma. When they answer "no," tell them it's because only guests of the resort are made privy to it ... and that's how you learned of it.

Linking for a better vacation Visit the official Maroma Hotel Web site for more information.